The Secretary-General spoke by telephone on Tuesday, 6 August, with President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan and informed the President that he had been closely following the situation in South Sudan.  He was pleased to note that calm had prevailed after the cabinet reshuffle.

The Secretary-General underscored that the United Nations looked forward to continue working closely with the Government, including with the new members of the President’s cabinet once they would be confirmed.

The Secretary-General, however, remained deeply concerned about the situation in Jonglei State and called on the President’s Government, including the SPLA, to ensure protection of civilians. The Secretary-General recalled the President’s commitment to ensure accountability for any abuses committed by the national army. 

In regard to Sudan/South Sudan issues, the Secretary-General stated he was relieved that the Government of Sudan had decided to postpone the deadline of shutting down the oil flow from South Sudan until 21 August.  The Secretary-General concluded by informing the President of his full support for the latter’s efforts to bring economic and social prosperity and political stability to South Sudan under his leadership.